So, you’ve made the decision to finally get that dog of the dog you’ve always wanted, the Lhasa apso. What’s next? Which dog food is best for Lhasa Apso puppy care? The right choice depends on a few factors. Let’s start by exploring a few things that you should know and consider before you head to the store:
* Preservatives. The first question you should answer when deciding what dog food is best for your Lhasa apso puppy is this: does the food contain artificial preservatives? There are several on the market. Look for ones that are specifically certified as safe for use with dogs of all ages. No human grade ingredients should be included.
Artificial preservatives have been proven in studies to cause organ toxicity, nervous system damage, and various types of cancer in humans. That’s why they’re banned in other countries. In the US, the ban is targeted at those dogs diagnosed with certain diseases or who are being abused. It’s very important to make sure you’re feeding your dog a healthy, balanced diet.
* Nutrition. You also need to understand which ingredients are best for your Lhasa apso puppy’s nutrition. Feeding your dog a diet high in carbohydrates could spell disaster for their growth and health. Although most commercial dog foods contain a mix of different carbohydrates, the best foods for Lhasa apso are high in complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats. These kinds of foods promote quick digestion, regular bowel movements, and maximum nutrient absorption.
* Human Grade Ingredients. Dogs are very sensitive to chemicals. So, never feed your dog any human-grade ingredients. Just like humans, dogs can develop serious illnesses if exposed to chemicals such as chlorine, formaldehyde, and dyes.
* Ollie Food. Some dog food companies add some dyes and chemicals to their dog food for the purpose of extending its shelf life. Unfortunately, this often results in the pet food going bad before it ever makes it to the shelves. When this happens, dogs can develop illnesses such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even fatal poisoning.
* Raw Feeding. Some dog food companies use only the best, purest ingredients. But raw feeding is more important than purchasing a can or bag of ready-made kibble. Even though commercially prepared dog foods are healthy, they’re still not as good for your dog as feeding him raw meat from your freezer.
Your Lhasa Apso needs a balanced diet consisting of meat, vegetables, and whole grains. To achieve a balanced diet, choose kibble and treats made with quality ingredients. To make sure that you’re providing your canine companion with the best dog food for Lhasa Apso, look for kibble and treat options that contain sweet potato, pumpkin, onions, garlic, and a balanced amino acid profile. These kinds of foods are especially valuable for those who live in areas where the weather tends to be harsh. A dog that is forced to eat only dry food and homemade treats can quickly develop health problems.
If you’re not convinced yet that giving Lhasa Apso pet parents’ home cooked meals containing fresh ingredients is better for them, consider this. Commercial dog food companies use preservatives, artificial flavors, and other chemicals to give their product a longer shelf life. They also use ingredients that are difficult for dogs to digest, making it more likely that your dog will develop an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients. As a result, dogs suffer from various symptoms, including loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, hair loss, and even high-energy and self-destructive behavior. And these ingredients are often found in the very foods that you’d most like to feed your canine: soy sauce, eggs, milk, chicken, and beef.
Fortunately, there is another kind of dog food for Lhasa Apso pet parents out there that provides the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients necessary for healthy nutrition. This kind of food contains no artificial ingredients and no harmful preservatives. It’s free of any ingredients that may cause adverse health reactions in dogs, including corn, wheat, and soy. Best of all, it uses ingredients that come straight from the best domestic sources, including brown rice, millet, oat bran, and alfalfa sprouts.
Brown rice is a complete protein source without any carbohydrates or sugars. Brown rice is especially suitable as a pet food for Lhasa Apso because it contains all eight amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. It’s also a very rich source of dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining a dog’s digestive health. Alfalfa sprouts are another natural, organic source of nutritious ingredients. Like brown rice, alfalfa sprouts provide dogs with complete proteins, fiber, and healthy B vitamins.
The best choice for pet owners and Lhasa Apso owners will depend on how much you want to spend and how well you know your dog. Many manufacturers use chicken meal in their kibble, so look for one that uses rice instead. Some brands use both rice and chicken meal in their products, but look for one that lists both ingredients as an ingredient. When in doubt, choose a brand that lists both ingredients as ingredients or a rice-free version.